Proton beam therapy for gastrointestinal cancers
We offer private proton beam therapy treatment for gastrointestinal (GI) cancers at our centre within University College Hospital London. If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of GI cancer, this advanced treatment can make a meaningful difference to both the outcome and day-to-day quality of life.
What is proton beam therapy?
An advanced form of radiation therapy with sub-millimetre accuracy on targeting tumors while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Learn moreWho we are
At Proton International London we deliver the most effective and precise treatment to our gastrointestinal cancer patients at our specialist proton beam therapy treatment centre at UCLH.
Learn moreMeet our gastrointestinal cancer specialists
Our treatment is provided by globally recognised consultant oncologists in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer.
Learn moreHere to help you
Our friendly team are here to answer any questions you may have about our treatment for gastrointestinal cancers.
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How does proton beam therapy work?
Traditional radiotherapy uses high-energy X-rays (photons), which are very effective at eradicating cancer cells. Where proton beam therapy treatment differs is in its precision. Standard radiotherapy has an exit dose, meaning the radiation continues on through the body, past the tumour and out the other side.
Proton beam therapy (PBT), on the other hand, allows for pinpoint accuracy. Protons deposit their maximum energy directly at the intended target, with very little exit dose beyond it.
This means proton beam therapy is particularly beneficial when the cancer is close to vital organs and structures, as many gastrointestinal cancers are. The bowel, liver, stomach, heart, lungs, and spinal cord can be protected while still receiving an effective dose of radiation.
Read more about how proton beam therapy works
The benefits of proton beam therapy for GI cancers
If you’re facing treatment for gastrointestinal cancer, you may have concerns about side effects, long-term health, and how therapy might affect your day-to-day life. While all forms of radiotherapy have the potential for short and long-term side effects, proton beam therapy can reduce the risk.
The main advantages include:
- Lower risk of short-term side effects
Because protons can be directed so precisely, there is less likelihood of damaging nearby tissues and organs during treatment. - Reduced chance of long-term complications
Protecting healthy organs means a lower risk of secondary issues that can affect quality of life months or years later, which is especially important in children and young adults. - Potential for higher doses (if appropriate)
Because of the precise nature of the treatment, in some situations, clinicians may decide that a higher dose of radiation is appropriate, improving the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Read more about the benefits of proton beam therapy.
Gastrointestinal cancers we treat
Proton beam therapy is suitable for a variety of GI cancers. At Proton International London, we currently treat:
- Oesophageal cancers, where protecting the heart and lungs is critical.
- Some primary liver cancers, particularly larger tumours not suitable for stereotactic radiotherapy or surgery.
- Some gall bladder cancers – especially those that cannot be managed with stereotactic radiotherapy.
If you have been diagnosed with any of these types of cancer and would like more advice on your treatment options, our oncology team can offer a private second-opinion consultation.
Who we are
Proton International London brings together some of the most respected names in clinical oncology, many of whom have been involved in clinical trials to advance the use of proton beam therapy. They work alongside an experienced team of patient coordinators, radiographers, medical directors, and support staff, ready to welcome our patients with warmth and compassion.
Our private treatment centre is based in the UK within University College Hospital London (UCLH). We partner with UCLH closely, so you can be sure of world-class treatment delivered within one of the UK’s most advanced hospitals.
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Meet the consultants
Make an enquiry about proton beam therapy
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with a gastrointestinal cancer, we are here to help you explore your treatment choices. Proton beam therapy is not suitable treatment for every case, but for the right patients it can be very beneficial in preserving quality of life and minimising the risk of future complications.
If you have a question, call our friendly team on 020 4629 3598. If you are ready to request a referral, please complete our referral form.